Hey there, I am getting 20 radation sessions. I’m half way threw. My appetite is very bad. When I do eat I feel sick after. Is this normal?
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Its not unknown to get some nausea. I was aware of some fleeting intense bouts, but not until the last week - I had 19 fractions. However, I was also on tamoxifen at the time and found that that gave me daily nausea even before the rads. If on hormone treatment, could be that too. I took it at night initially, but couldnt sleep, however, trying in the morning was worse.
Hi dawn_louise_48
Thanks for your message.
It sounds as though you are having a difficult time with radiotherapy symptoms.
Nausea and appetite issues are not a common side effect of breast radiotherapy, however, if your radiotherapy is near your collarbone or breastbone, you may have a sore throat, dry mouth, difficulty swallowing or indigestion which may lead to nausea and reduced appetite. It is important that you speak to your treatment team about the symptoms you are experiencing. They may suggest taking liquid pain relief before eating, or prescribe additional supportive medications. You can also ask for a referral to a dietician if you are concerned about your dietary intake.
You do not mention whether you previously had chemotherapy or are on hormone therapy. Chemotherapy symptoms can persist after finishing treatment and as @entropy says hormone therapy can also cause nausea for some people.
Additionally, extreme tiredness (fatigue) can happen as a result of all treatments for breast cancer and may also impact appetite and diet. You may also find our information on diet and breast cancer useful.
Our FaceBook Live about radiotherapy for breast cancer may have some helpful information for you.
We offer a range of free supportive services for anyone who has had a diagnosis of breast cancer which you may be interested in. They include face to face and online courses and events.
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